Independent self-climbing form system for building vertical structures

ABSTRACT

An independent self-climbing form system may be assembled at a work site to build, maintain, or repair vertical structures. The independent self-climbing form system may include a plurality of support towers. Additionally, at least two trusses may be connected to the plurality of support towers. The trusses may be spaced apart from each other. Further, one or more platforms may be formed within a perimeter delimited by the at least two trusses. The at least one or more platforms may be configured to extend or retract within the perimeter. Furthermore, screw jacks may be disposed at each connection point of the at least two trusses on the plurality of support towers. The screw jacks may be configured to vertically move the at least two trusses up and down the plurality of support towers.

BACKGROUND

Scaffolding structures may be used to support workers and materials toaid in the construction, maintenance, and repairs of building, bridges,and other vertically rising structures. Conventional scaffoldingstructures include a scaffold that is attached and anchored to avertically rising structure being constructed, maintained, or repaired.Additionally, conventional scaffolding structures are limited to a setwork area when they are attached and anchored to the correspondingvertically rising structure.

SUMMARY

This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts that arefurther described below in the detailed description. This summary is notintended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subjectmatter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in limiting the scope ofthe claimed subject matter.

In one aspect, the embodiments disclosed herein relate to an independentself-climbing form system. The independent self-climbing form system mayinclude a plurality of support towers and at least two trusses connectedto the plurality of support towers. The trusses may be spaced apart fromeach other, and one or more platforms formed within a perimeterdelimited by the at least two trusses. The at least one or moreplatforms may be configured to extend or retract within the perimeter.Screw jacks may be disposed at each connection point of the at least twotrusses on the plurality of support towers, where the screw jacks may beconfigured to vertically move the at least two trusses up and down theplurality of support towers. Each of the support towers of the pluralityof support towers may be formed from a plurality of tower segmentsstacked on top of each other. An end truss may be disposed at ends ofthe at least two trusses to connect the at least two trusses together.

A peripheral edge of the at least two trusses and the end trusses mayform the perimeter. One or more housings may be disposed on the endtrusses. The one or more platforms may be a work platform. The workplatform may be a multi-level deck platform. The screw jacks may includea motor, a gearbox, and a threaded rod. A locking device may beconfigured lock the trusses at a vertically position on the plurality ofsupport towers. An anti-rotational device may be disposed on thethreaded rod. Controls and a computer system may be disposed on thetrusses to manually and/or automatically operate the independentself-climbing form system.

In another aspect, the embodiments disclosed herein relate to a methodfor installing an independent self-climbing form system at a site. Themethod may include erecting a plurality of support towers at the site,and connecting at least two trusses to the plurality of support towers.The trusses may be spaced apart from each other, and at least one ormore platforms may be formed within a perimeter delimited by the atleast two trusses. Screw jacks may be provided at each connection pointof the at least two trusses on the plurality of support towers. Themethod may further include stacking and coupling a plurality of towersegments on top of each other to increase a height of the plurality ofsupport towers, as well as providing an end truss at ends of the atleast two trusses to connect the at least two trusses together, andinstalling wood planks or plywood or composite boards or metal grateflooring on the trusses, the platforms, and the end trussed to formwalkways.

In yet another aspect, the embodiments disclosed herein relate to amethod for using the independent self-climbing form system to build avertical structure. The method may include vertically moving the atleast two trusses up or down a plurality of support towers with screwjacks at each connection point between the at least two trusses and theplurality of support towers. The at least two trusses may be locked at avertical position on the plurality of support towers to access thevertical structure. The method may also include extending or retractingat least one or more of the platforms connected to the at least twotrusses around the vertical structure. The vertically moving of the atleast two trusses may include moving a motor of the screw jacks up athreaded rod. The locking of the at least two trusses may includeremovably bolting an arm at an end of the threaded rod to a rigidframework of the plurality of support towers. The method may furtherinclude leveling each of the at least two trusses at a same height onthe plurality of support towers. A non-transitory computer-readablemedium may also be provided, including instructions, executable by aprocessor, wherein the instructions include functionality to control theindependent self-climbing form system.

Other aspects and advantages will be apparent from the followingdescription and the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIGS. 1A and 1B illustrate various schematic views of an independentself-climbing form system according to one or more embodiments of thepresent disclosure.

FIGS. 2A-2I illustrate various perspective views of an independentself-climbing form system according to one or more embodiments of thepresent disclosure.

FIG. 3 shows a flowchart in accordance with one or more embodiments.

FIG. 4 shows a computing system in accordance with one or moreembodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments of the present disclosure are described below in detail withreference to the accompanying figures. Wherever possible, like oridentical reference numerals are used in the figures to identify commonor the same elements. The figures are not necessarily to scale andcertain features and certain views of the figures may be shownexaggerated in scale for purposes of clarification. Further, in thefollowing detailed description, numerous specific details are set forthin order to provide a more thorough understanding of the claimed subjectmatter. However, it will be apparent to one having ordinary skill in theart that the embodiments described may be practiced without thesespecific details. In other instances, well-known features have not beendescribed in detail to avoid unnecessarily complicating the description.As used herein, the term “coupled” or “coupled to” or “connected” or“connected to” may indicate establishing either a direct or indirectconnection, and is not limited to either unless expressly referenced assuch. Further, as used herein the term “operationally coupled” or“operationally coupled to” or “operationally connected” or“operationally connected to” may indicate establishing either a director indirect connection to allow movement between components, and is notlimited to either unless expressly referenced as such.

Further, embodiments disclosed herein are described with termsdesignating a vertical structure in reference to a structure thatvertically extends, but any terms designating vertical structure typeshould not be deemed to limit the scope of the disclosure. For example,embodiments of the disclosure may be used on buildings and bridges, suchas skyscrapers, columns, piers, abutments, piles, substructure andsuperstructure components of bridges and support structures. It is to befurther understood that the various embodiments described herein may beused in various stages of the vertical structure, such as sitepreparation, constructing and erecting the vertical structure,maintenance, repairs, etc., and in other environments, such as oil andgas rig sites, refineries, power plants, and other sites that requirevertical structures, without departing from the scope of the presentdisclosure. Further, the vertical structures may be man-made ornaturally occurring. In some embodiments, the vertical structures may bemade from concrete, steel or other metals, wood, composite, glass, orany combination thereof. In one or more embodiments, an independentself-climbing form system is assembled at a work site to aid inconstructing, maintaining and/or repairing the vertical structure. It isfurther envisioned that the independent self-climbing form system may bemanually operated or automated. The embodiments are described merely asexamples of useful applications, which are not limited to any specificdetails of the embodiments herein.

In one or more embodiments, the Figures illustrate various views of anindependent self-climbing form system according to the presentdisclosure. Because the system and methods may apply to any of theembodiments, reference numbers are not referenced to avoid confusion ofthe numbering between the different embodiments. The independentself-climbing form system may be assembled at a work site to build,maintain, or repair vertical structures. The independent self-climbingform system may include a plurality of support towers spaced a distanceaway from each other. One skilled in the art will appreciate how anynumber of support towers may be used without departing from the presentscope of the disclosure. The plurality of support towers may be formedfrom a plurality of tower segments stacked on top of each other. In anon-limiting example, each tower segment may be a size similar to thatof a shipping container to allow for easy transportation. Additionally,the plurality of support towers may have platforms, stairs, ladders orelevators attached thereto for workers to use. The plurality of supporttowers may be anchored into a ground at the site.

Additionally, trusses may be connected to the plurality of supporttowers such that the trusses are spaced apart from each other. Theplurality of support towers and the trusses may form a perimeter aroundthe vertical structures. It is further envisioned that an end truss maybe disposed at ends of the trusses such that the trusses are connectedtogether. The end truss may provide a weight balance to minimize oreliminate sagging in the trusses. Further, at least one or moreplatforms are provided within the independent self-climbing form system.The platforms are formed and delimited by a peripheral edge of thetrusses and the end truss to form a work perimeter.

The platforms may provide an area for workers such that the platformsare a work platform. In some embodiments, the platforms may bereconfigurable any way (vertically, horizontally, etc.) to be arrangedwith respect to the vertical structure. One skilled in the art willappreciate how the platforms may extend and retract to adjust the workperimeter based on the size and shape of the vertical structure. It isfurther envisioned that one or more offices, break areas, storagespaces, or living corridors may be provided on the plurality of supporttowers, the trusses, and/or the end truss.

In one or more embodiments, lifting mechanisms may be used to verticallymove the trusses up and down the plurality of support towers. In anon-limiting example, the lifting mechanisms may be screw jacks disposedat each connection point of the trusses on the plurality of supporttowers. In a non-limiting example, a motor and a gearbox may work inconjunction to move the screw jacks up and down. The motor and thegearbox may power a jack of the screw jack which in turn moves ajackscrew of the screw jack to climb up or down a mast leg of theplurality of support towers. A latch arm may be provided at an end ofthe jackscrew to latch onto the mast leg. A nut may be used to lock thelatch arm to the jackscrew. It is further envisioned that the latch armmay be two pieces hinged together and one of the hinged pieces mayinclude a removable lock to lock onto the mast leg. In one or moreembodiments, at end opposite the latch arm, an anti-rotation device maybe attached to the jackscrew.

Additionally, one or more locking mechanisms may be provided to lock thescrew jacks such that the trusses are secured at a position on theplurality of support towers to build the vertical structure. In anon-limiting example, the locking mechanism may be a rod with one endremovably fixed to the screw jacks and an opposite end removably fixedto a mast leg. It is further envisioned that a control panel may beprovided on the trusses to operate the independent self-climbing formsystem. The control panel may be manually operated or automated.

Referring now to FIG. 1A, a schematic side view of an independentself-climbing form system 100 to embodiments herein is illustrated. Asillustrated in FIG. 1A, the independent self-climbing form system 100may include one or more support towers 101 at a work site 1. The one ormore support towers 101 may be spaced on at the work site 1 to beadjacent to one or more vertically rising structures 2. The one or moresupport towers 101 may be formed from a plurality of tower segments 102stacked and coupled on top of each other. One skilled in the art willappreciate how any number of tower segments 102 may be used to have theone or more support towers 101 reach a height for operations on the oneor more vertically rising structures 2. In a non-limiting example, eachtower segment 102 may have a rigid framework made from a plurality ofsteel beams, steel columns, pipe sections, square hollow sections or acombination thereof connected together. Additionally, the plurality ofsupport towers 102 may have platforms, stairs, ladders or elevators 103attached thereto for workers to use. In a non-limiting example, theplatforms, stairs, ladders or elevators 103 may be attached within oroutside the plurality of support towers 102. It is further envisionedthat the platforms, stairs, ladders or elevators 103 may be independentof the plurality of support towers 102 in a free standing structure. Forsimplicity purposes only, the platforms, stairs, ladders or elevators103 are only shown in one tower segment 102 to avoid confusion in thedrawings.

In one or more embodiments, the independent self-climbing form system100 may include one or more trusses 104 operationally connected to theone or more support towers 101. The one or more trusses 104 may extendfrom a first end 105 to a second end 106 such that the one or moresupport towers 101 is connected to the one or more trusses 104 betweenthe first end 105 and the second end 106. While it is noted that the oneor more trusses 104 are shown as being horizontal trusses, the one ormore trusses 104 may be shaped to have a curve or may be circularwithout departing from the present scope of the disclosure. The one ormore trusses 104 may have a rigid framework made from a plurality ofsteel beams connected together such that walkways and other surfaces maybe formed within and on top of the one or more trusses 104 for workersto use. In a non-limiting example, wood planks or plywood or compositeboards or metal grate flooring may be placed on the plurality of steelbeams to form the walkways and surfaces.

In some embodiments, a plurality of platforms (107, 207 a, 207 b, 207 c)may be operationally connected to the one or more trusses 104. In anon-limiting example, the plurality of platforms (107, 207 a, 207 b, 207c) may include upper platforms 107 and lower platforms (207 a, 207 b,207 c). Both the upper platforms 107 and the lower platforms (207 a, 207b, 207 c) may be adjustable in real-time to slide toward and away fromthe one or more vertically rising structures 2 to accommodate shape anddesign changes in the one or more vertically rising structures 2. Theupper platforms 107 may be formed by various platforms (see 107 a, 107b, 107 c in FIG. 1B) on a top surface of the one or more trusses 104.Additionally, the lower platforms (207 a, 207 b, 207 c) may be connectedon a bottom surface of the one or more trusses 104. In a non-limitingexample, a middle lower platform 207 a may be provided to accesssurfaces of the one or more vertically rising structures 2 below the oneor more trusses 104. Further, an outer surface of the one or morevertically rising structures 2 below the one or more trusses 104 may beaccessed by a two tier lower platform having a first lower platform 207b on top of a second lower platform 207 c. The first lower platform 207b, in some configurations, may be offset from the second lower platform207 c to allow for angled movement along the one or more verticallyrising structures 2. The plurality of platforms (107, 207 a, 207 b, 207c) may each be work platforms for workers to work on the one or morevertically rising structures 2. The plurality of platforms (107, 207 a,207 b, 207 c) may retract or extend with respect to the one or morevertically rising structures 2 to allow for various shapes of the one ormore vertically rising structures 2 to be accommodated within theindependent self-climbing form system 100. It is further envisioned thatany of the plurality of platforms 107 may be a multi-level deck platformsuch that platforms may be on top and below the one or more trusses 104.In a non-limiting example, wood planks or plywood or composite boards ormetal grate flooring may be placed on the plurality of platforms (107,207 a, 207 b, 207 c) to form a path for workers to use.

Additionally, one or more end trusses 108 may be connected at the firstend 105 and the second end 106 of the one or more trusses 104. Oneskilled in the art will appreciate how the one or more end trusses 108may be used to add weight to the first end 105 and the second end 106 ofthe one or more trusses 104 to eliminate a sagging in the one or moretrusses 104. Additionally, one or more housings 109 may be disposed onand/or within the one or more end trusses 108 and/or the one or moretrusses 104. The one or more housings 109 may be a control room, breakroom, living corridors, restrooms, and office buildings. The controlroom may include controls and a computer system to manually and/orautomatically operate the independent self-climbing form system 100.

Still referring to FIG. 1A, in one or more embodiments, screw jacks 111or hydraulic jacks may be disposed at each connection point of the oneor more trusses 104 on the one or more support towers 101. The screwjacks 111 may be used to vertically move the one or more trusses 104 upand down the one or more support towers 101. While it is noted that onlyone screw jack 111 is shown on each support tower 101, this is merelyfor example purposes only and a plurality of screw jacks may be used ateach support tower 101. The screw jacks 111, including a motor andgearbox 112, may be coupled to a threaded rod 113. The threaded rod 113may extend a length along an outer surface of the screw jack 111 suchthat the screw jack 111 climbs up and down the threaded rod 113. It isfurther envisioned that an anti-rotational device 114 may be disposed onthe threaded rod 113 to ensure that the threaded rod 113 does notrotate. In a non-limiting example, the anti-rotational device 114 may bea bolt or nut. Further, a locking device 115 may be used to lock the oneor more trusses 104 at a vertical position on the one or more supporttowers 101. In a non-limiting example, the locking device 115 may be anarm extending from the threaded rod 113, where the arm may be removablybolted to the support tower 101.

Referring now to FIG. 1B, a schematic top view of the independentself-climbing form system 100 to embodiments herein is illustrated. Asshown in FIG. 1B, four support towers 101 a, 101 b, 101 c, 101 d may bespaced around the vertically rising structures 2 to space apart a firsttruss 104 a and a second truss 104 b. Additionally, a first end truss105 a and a second end truss 105 b may extend between the first truss104 a and the second truss 104 b. In one or more embodiments, an innerperipheral edge of the first truss 104 a, the second truss 104 b, thefirst end truss 105 a, and the second end truss 105 b may delimit aperimeter 116 around the vertically rising structures 2. It is furtherenvisioned that a middle truss 110 may be connected from the first truss104 a to the second truss 104 b between the vertically rising structures2 to split the perimeter 116 in two and to provide additional workspacebetween the vertically rising structures 2.

In one or more embodiments, upper platforms (107, FIG. 1A), disposed onthe first truss 104 a and the second truss 104 b, may include variousmovable platforms around each vertically rising structures 2. In anon-limiting example, the upper platforms (107) may have two endplatforms 107 a, two side platforms 107 b, and two middle platforms 107c. Additionally, each of the platforms (107 a, 107 b, 107 c) may extendand retract in a direction shown by arrows in FIG. 1B. In a non-limitingexample, each of the platforms (107 a, 107 b, 107 c) may individuallymove with respect to each other. By individually moving each of theplatforms (107 a, 107 b, 107 c), the independent self-climbing formsystem 100 may accommodate essentially any shape or size change in thevertically rising structures 2.

Now referring to FIGS. 2A-2I, FIGS. 2A-2I illustrate various perspectiveviews of the independent self-climbing form system 100 being installed,assembled, and operated according to one or more embodiments of thepresent disclosure. As shown in FIG. 2A, the plurality of support towers101 a, 101 b, 101 c, 101 d may be erected at the work site 1 to surroundthe vertically rising structures 2. While it is noted that four supporttowers are shown in FIG. 2A, this is merely for example purposes onlyand any number of support towers may be used without departing from thescope of the present disclosure. In a non-limiting example, a crane 200may lift the rigid framework of the plurality of support towers 101 a,101 b, 101 c, 101 d to be upright at the work site 1. Additionally, eachof the plurality of support towers 101 a, 101 b, 101 c, 101 d may have aheight H corresponding to an initial height iH of the vertically risingstructures 2. In a non-limiting example, the height H of the pluralityof support towers 101 a, 101 b, 101 c, 101 d may be greater than theinitial height iH of the vertically rising structures 2 (for example,the lower portions of the rising structures 2 may not requirescaffolding or an elevated work surface, whereas the sections to bebuilt above iH may require such). It is further envisioned that theplurality of support towers 101 a, 101 b, 101 c, 101 d may be anchoredto a ground of the work site 1.

In one or more embodiments, once the plurality of support towers 101 a,101 b, 101 c, 101 d are erected, the first truss 104 a and the secondtruss 104 b are operationally coupled to the plurality of support towers101 a, 101 b, 101 c, 101 d as shown in FIG. 2B. In a non-limitingexample, the first truss 104 a may be operationally coupled to the firstsupport tower 101 a and the second support tower 101 b. The second truss104 b may be operationally coupled to the third support tower 101 c andthe fourth support tower 101 d. In some embodiments, a crane may liftthe first truss 104 a and the second truss 104 b onto the first supporttower 101 a and the second support tower 101 b, respectively. It isfurther envisioned that the first truss 104 a and the second truss 104 bmay be directly assembled onto the first support tower 101 a and thesecond support tower 101 b, respectively, on a ground level of the worksite 1. Additionally, the first truss 104 a may be spaced a distance Dfrom the second truss 104 b such that the vertically rising structures 2are in the space between the first truss 104 a and the second truss 104b.

As shown in FIG. 2C, in one or more embodiments, once the first truss104 a and the second truss 104 b are installed, the first end truss 105a and the second end truss 105 b may be coupled to the ends of the firsttruss 104 a and the second truss 104 b. In a non-limiting example, thefirst end truss 105 a and the second end truss 105 b may each extendfrom the first truss 104 a to the second truss 104 b at ends oppositefrom each other. Further, the first end truss 105 a and the second endtruss 105 b may provide additional workspace, restrooms, break rooms,storage space, and be used for connectivity of the one or more platforms(see 107 in FIGS. 1A and 1B). It is further envisioned that the firstend truss 105 a and the second end truss 105 b may be replaced withcounter-weight measures at each end of the first truss 104 a to thesecond truss 104 b. In a non-limiting example, steel or concrete blocksmay be provided in each end of the first truss 104 a to the second truss104 b to prevent sagging.

Additionally, the independent self-climbing form system 100 forms a workperimeter (116) around the vertically rising structures 2. The workperimeter (116) may be delimited by the first truss 104 a, the secondtruss 104 b, the first end truss 105 a, and the second end truss 105 b.Further, the first truss 104 a and the second truss 104 b may bepositioned and locked on the plurality of support towers 101 a, 101 b,101 c, 101 d at a vertical position that may have a height H′ less thanthe height H of the plurality of support towers 101 a, 101 b, 101 c, 101d.

Now referring to FIG. 2D, in one or more embodiments, the middle truss110 may be connected to and extend from the first truss 104 a to thesecond truss 104 b. Additionally, the middle truss 110 may split thework perimeter (116) to have one vertically rising structure 2 onadjacent sides of the middle truss 110. With the trusses (104 a, 104 b,104c, 104d, 105 a, 105 b, 110) installed and assembled, the one or moreplatforms 107 (see 107 a, 107 b, 107 c, 207 a, 207 b, 207 c described inFIGS. 1A and 1B) may be operationally connected to the first truss 104 aand the second truss 104 b.

Referring now to FIGS. 2E-2G, in one or more embodiments, one or moreformwork panels 202 may be landed on the vertically rising structures 2and operationally coupled to the one or more platforms 107. The one ormore formwork panels 202 may be used to form an outer surface of thevertically rising structures 2. In a non-limiting example, the one ormore formwork panels 202 may be rigid such that a shape of the one ormore formwork panels 202 is maintained to allow the outer surface of thevertically rising structures 2 to be formed. Additionally, the one ormore formwork panels 202 may enclose the vertically rising structures 2to form an inner chamber 203 and allow for a settling of materials ofthe vertically rising structures 2 such as concrete that have beenpoured.

In some embodiments, an internal formwork frame 204 may be inserted intothe inner chamber 203 formed from the one or more formwork panels 202.In addition, the internal formwork frame 204 may be independent of theone or more formwork panels 202 such that the internal formwork frame204 may be installed before landing the one or more formwork panels 202.In a non-limiting example, the internal formwork frame 204 may be asteel frame. Additionally, the internal formwork frame 204 may be usedto support an inner housing of the vertically rising structures 2. Withthe internal formwork frame 204, materials such as concrete or compositemay be poured into or onto the vertically rising structures 2. It isfurther envisioned that materials such as concrete or composite may bepoured into or onto the vertically rising structures 2 without using theinternal formwork frame 204.

Now referring to FIGS. 2H and 2I, in one or more embodiments, thevertically rising structures 2 may be further built to have a new heightnH greater than the initial Height iH. With the new height nH of thevertically rising structures 2, the first truss 104 a and the secondtruss 104 b may be raised to higher vertical position on the pluralityof support towers 101 a, 101 b, 101 c, 101 d at a height H″. The heightH″ may be greater than the previous height (See H′ in FIG. 2C) of thefirst truss 104 a and the second truss 104 b. As shown in FIG. 2H, thevertically rising structures 2 may be built such that they are inclinedtoward each other. As may be readily envisioned based on FIGS. 1A, 1B,and 2D-2I, the work platforms (see 107 107 a, 107 b, 107 c, 207 a, 207b, 207 c) may each be adjusted before or during vertical movement of thefirst truss 104 a and the second truss 104 b so as to not damage thevertically rising structures 2. Additionally, the work platforms (see107 107 a, 107 b, 107 c, 207 a, 207 b, 207 c) may be set once the firsttruss 104 a and the second truss 104 b reach the new height so as toprovide the appropriate work surfaces to access and continue buildingthe vertically rising structures 2.

As shown in FIG. 21, a height of the plurality of support towers 101 a,101 b, 101 c, 101 d may be increased. In a non-limiting example, each ofthe plurality of support towers 101 a, 101 b, 101 c, 101 d may have asecond tower segment 102 b stacked on top of a first tower segment 102a. A rigid framework of the second tower segment 102 b may couple to arigid framework of the first tower segment 102 a. Additionally, thefirst tower segment 102 a and the second tower segment 102 b may bebolted together to be locked in place. Further, the first tower segment102 a and the second tower segment 102 b may be interchangeable suchthat either tower segment 102 a, 102 b may be on the bottom or top andhave additional tower segments added thereon. It is further envisionedthat alignment features may be provided on both the first tower segment102 a and the second tower segment 102 b to ensure coupling connectionbetween each other.

Turning to FIG. 3, a flowchart in accordance with one or moreembodiments is shown. Specifically, FIG. 3 describes a general methodfor using the independent self-climbing form system 100 as described inFIGS. 1A-21. One or more blocks in FIG. 3 may be performed by a computersystem as described in FIGS. 4A and 4B. For example, the computer systemmay include a non-transitory computer-readable medium with instructionsexecutable by a processor. The instructions may include functionality tocontrol the independent self-climbing form system. While the variousblocks in FIG. 3 are presented and described sequentially, one ofordinary skill in the art will appreciate that some or all of the blocksmay be executed in different orders, may be combined or omitted, andsome or all of the blocks may be executed in parallel. Furthermore, theblocks may be performed actively or passively.

In Block 300, after the independent self-climbing form system has beenassembled, trusses may vertically move up or down a plurality of supporttowers in accordance with one or more embodiments. For example, screwjacks at each connection point between the at least two trusses and theplurality of support towers may vertically move the trusses. The screwjacks may be operated by having each motor and gearbox move the screwjacks up or down a threaded rod. Additionally, in order to keep thethreaded rod from rotating, an anti-rotation device (e.g., bolt or nut)may be disposed at an end of the threaded rod. It is further envisionedthat one or more sensors may be disposed on or provided within the screwjacks and/or trusses to determine a rate at which the trusses aremoving.

In Block 310, once the trusses reach a vertical position for performingoperation on the vertical structures, each truss may be leveled to be ata same height in accordance with one or more embodiments. For example,the screw jacks may raise the trusses at a rate such that each truss ishorizontal and even for workers to use and meet safety regulations. Itis further envisioned that one or more sensors may be used to providemeasurements to ensure that the trusses are level. Likewise, during thevertical moving of the trusses, the one or more sensors may providereal-time data to a rate of the vertical movement of each truss.

In Block 320, with the trusses level and at the vertical position forperforming operation on the vertical structures, the trusses may belocked at the vertical position on the plurality of support towers witha locking device. For example, the locking device may be an armextending from an end of each threaded rod of the screw jacks and may beremovably bolted to a rigid framework of the plurality of supporttowers. By locking the trusses, workers may safely access the verticalstructures. Additionally, the screw jacks may also be locked. Forexample, an anti-rotational device may be disposed on the threaded rodsuch that the threaded rod does not rotate to ensure the screw jacks arenon-operational while the trusses are locked.

In Block 330, with the trusses locked, platforms operationally connectedto the trusses may be extended or retracted in accordance with one ormore embodiments. For example, the platforms surround the verticalstructures to allow for workers to access the vertical structures. Theplatforms may be extended to be adjacent and/or rest against thevertical structures. Additionally, the platforms may be retracted tocreate space for the vertical structures and allow movement of thetrusses without damaging the vertical structures and the components ofthe independent self-climbing form system.

In Block 340, a determination is made whether the trusses need to beraised or lowered in accordance with one or more embodiments. Forexample, the vertical structure may be built or repaired in sectionsbased on a required height needed such that the trusses are at thevertical position on the plurality of support towers to build or repairthe vertical structure. If the answer to the vertical structure needingbeing raised or lowered is yes (e.g., building or repairing the verticalstructure at other vertical positions), the flowchart will proceed toBlock 350. In Block 350, the trusses may be unlocked (e.g., unboltingthe arm) and will go back to the Block 300 to repeat the previouslymentioned Blocks (300-340). In some embodiments, a position of thetrusses may be adjusted in Block 355 prior to returning to the Block 300from the Block 350. For example, the trusses alignment with respect tothe plurality of support towers may be adjusted or leveled such that thetrusses are ready to be vertically moved.

However, if the answer to whether the trusses need to be raised orlowered is no, the flowchart will proceed to Block 360. In Block 360,the vertical position of trusses may be maintained in accordance withone or more embodiments. For example, the vertical position ismaintained to allow workers to perform operations on the verticalstructures. It is further envisioned that the independent self-climbingform system may also be prepared for disassembly in Block 360.

In one or more embodiments, the flowchart of FIG. 3 allows for a workerto manual operate controls of the independent self-climbing form systemor the computer system may automatically operate the independentself-climbing form system. With the trusses operationally connected tothe plurality of support towers, any height of the vertical structuresmay be accessible. For example, the independent self-climbing formsystem may help workers repair or build the vertical structures withouthaving to anchor into the vertical structures. One skilled in the artwill appreciate how utilizing the independent self-climbing form systemsdisclosed herein allow for fast and quick access to vertical structuresof all shapes and sizes.

With respect to the embodiments discussed above in the Figuresillustrating various views of the independent self-climbing form system(100), various procedures may be automated to provide faster deliverytime in comparison to manual methods for preparing and transmittingbuilding operations. For example, a movement of the trusses may beprogrammed to automatically occur based on a height of the verticalstructure. Moreover, the platforms extending or retracting may beprogrammed to automatically occur based on a shape and size of thevertical structure or based on a movement of the trusses, for example.

Implementations herein for operating the independent self-climbing formsystem (100) may be implemented on a computing system coupled to acontroller. Any combination of mobile, desktop, server, router, switch,embedded device, or other types of hardware may be used with theemulsion generating system (100, 200, 300). For example, as shown inFIG. 4, the computing system 400 may include one or more computerprocessors 402, non-persistent storage 404 (e.g., volatile memory, suchas random access memory (RAM), cache memory), persistent storage 406(e.g., a hard disk, an optical drive such as a compact disk (CD) driveor digital versatile disk (DVD) drive, a flash memory, etc.), acommunication interface 412 (e.g., Bluetooth interface, infraredinterface, network interface, optical interface, etc.), and numerousother elements and functionalities. It is further envisioned thatsoftware instructions in a form of computer readable program code toperform embodiments of the disclosure may be stored, in whole or inpart, temporarily or permanently, on a non-transitory computer readablemedium such as a CD, DVD, storage device, a diskette, a tape, flashmemory, physical memory, or any other computer readable storage medium.For example, the software instructions may correspond to computerreadable program code that, when executed by a processor(s), isconfigured to perform one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

The computing system 400 may also include one or more input devices 410,such as a touchscreen, keyboard, mouse, microphone, touchpad, electronicpen, or any other type of input device. Additionally, the computingsystem 400 may include one or more output devices 408, such as a screen(e.g., a liquid crystal display (LCD), a plasma display, touchscreen,cathode ray tube (CRT) monitor, projector, or other display device), aprinter, external storage, or any other output device. One or more ofthe output devices may be the same or different from the inputdevice(s). The input and output device(s) may be locally or remotelyconnected to the computer processor(s) 402, non-persistent storage 404,and persistent storage 406. Many different types of computing systemsexist, and the aforementioned input and output device(s) may take otherforms.

The computing system 400 of FIG. 4 may include functionality to presentraw and/or processed data, such as results of comparisons and otherprocessing. For example, presenting data may be accomplished throughvarious presenting methods. Specifically, data may be presented througha user interface provided by a computing device. The user interface mayinclude a GUI that displays information on a display device, such as acomputer monitor or a touchscreen on a handheld computer device. The GUImay include various GUI widgets that organize what data is shown as wellas how data is presented to a user. Furthermore, the GUI may presentdata directly to the user, e.g., data presented as actual data valuesthrough text, or rendered by the computing device into a visualrepresentation of the data, such as through visualizing a data model.For example, a GUI may first obtain a notification from a softwareapplication requesting that a particular data object be presented withinthe GUI. Next, the GUI may determine a data object type associated withthe particular data object, e.g., by obtaining data from a dataattribute within the data object that identifies the data object type.Then, the GUI may determine any rules designated for displaying thatdata object type, e.g., rules specified by a software framework for adata object class or according to any local parameters defined by theGUI for presenting that data object type. Finally, the GUI may obtaindata values from the particular data object and render a visualrepresentation of the data values within a display device according tothe designated rules for that data object type.

Data may also be presented through various audio methods. In particular,data may be rendered into an audio format and presented as sound throughone or more speakers operably connected to a computing device. Data mayalso be presented to a user through haptic methods. For example, hapticmethods may include vibrations or other physical signals generated bythe computing system. For example, data may be presented to a user usinga vibration generated by a handheld computer device with a predefinedduration and intensity of the vibration to communicate the data.

As described above, embodiments herein are directed toward anindependent self-climbing form system that may be used to erect, build,repair, or otherwise work on a structure. The independent self-climbingform system may be used in a manner that minimizes or eliminates theneed to anchor to or otherwise interact with the structure, other thanto perform the desired work. Additionally, the moving internal platformsprovided at one or multiple levels may allow for unique shapedstructures to be accommodated. Further, the independent self-climbingform system may be altered in height in real time corresponding to aheight of the structure being worked such that the height of theindependent self-climbing form system is not fixed. Furthermore, theindependent self-climbing form system may include housing for workers toremain on site during down time to allow for easy and quick startup.

While the invention has been described with respect to a limited numberof embodiments, those skilled in the art, having benefit of thisdisclosure, will appreciate that other embodiments can be devised whichdo not depart from the scope of the invention as disclosed herein.Accordingly, the scope of the invention should be limited only by theattached claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. An independent self-climbing form system, comprising: a plurality of support towers; at least two trusses connected to the plurality of support towers, wherein the trusses are spaced apart from each other; one or more platforms formed within a perimeter delimited by the at least two trusses, wherein the at least one or more platforms are configured to extend or retract within the perimeter; and screw jacks disposed at each connection point of the at least two trusses on the plurality of support towers, wherein the screw jacks are configured to vertically move the at least two trusses up and down the plurality of support towers.
 2. The independent self-climbing form system of claim 1, wherein each of the support towers of the plurality of support towers is formed from a plurality of tower segments stacked on top of each other.
 3. The independent self-climbing form system of claim 1, further comprising an end truss disposed at ends of the at least two trusses to connect the at least two trusses together.
 4. The independent self-climbing form system of claim 3, wherein a peripheral edge of the at least two trusses and the end trusses form the perimeter.
 5. The independent self-climbing form system of claim 3, further comprising one or more housings disposed on the end trusses.
 6. The independent self-climbing form system of claim 1, wherein the one or more platforms are a work platform.
 7. The independent self-climbing form system of claim 6, wherein the work platform is a multi-level deck platform.
 8. The independent self-climbing form system of claim 1, wherein the screw jacks comprise a motor, a gearbox, and a threaded rod.
 9. The independent self-climbing form system of claim 8, further comprising a locking device configured lock the trusses at a vertical position on the plurality of support towers.
 10. The independent self-climbing form system of claim 8, further comprising an anti-rotational device disposed on the threaded rod.
 11. The independent self-climbing form system of claim 1, further comprising controls and a computer system disposed on the trusses to manually and/or automatically operate the independent self-climbing form system.
 12. A method for installing an independent self-climbing form system at a site, comprising: erecting a plurality of support towers at the site; connecting at least two trusses to the plurality of support towers, wherein the trusses are spaced apart from each other; forming at least one or more platforms within a perimeter delimited by the at least two trusses; and providing screw jacks at each connection point of the at least two trusses on the plurality of support towers.
 13. The method of claim 12, further comprising stacking and coupling a plurality of tower segments on top of each other to increase a height of the plurality of support towers.
 14. The method of claim 12, further comprising providing an end truss at ends of the at least two trusses to connect the at least two trusses together.
 15. The method of claim 12, further comprising installing wood planks or plywood or composite boards or metal grate flooring on the trusses, the platforms, and the end trusses to form walkways.
 16. A method for using an independent self-climbing form system to build a vertical structure, comprising: vertically moving at least two trusses up or down a plurality of support towers with a screw jacks at each connection point between the at least two trusses and the plurality of support towers; locking the at least two trusses at a vertical position to the plurality of support towers to access the vertical structure; and extending or retracting at least one or more platforms connected to the at least two trusses around the vertical structure.
 17. The method of claim 16, wherein the vertically moving of the at least two trusses comprises moving the screw jacks up a threaded rod.
 18. The method of claim 17, wherein the locking of the at least two trusses comprises removably bolting an arm at an end of the threaded rod to a rigid framework of the plurality of support towers.
 19. The method of claim 16, further comprising leveling each of the at least two trusses at a same height on the plurality of support towers.
 20. The method of claim 16, further comprising providing a non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising instructions, executable by a processor, wherein the instructions comprising functionality to control the independent self-climbing form system. 